Even though seasonal allergies aren’t usually dangerous, the symptoms can be extremely unpleasant. Luckily, many people are able to minimize those symptoms or avoid them entirely by making a few simple lifestyle changes. Here is a look at five strategies that you can use to keep your seasonal allergies under control.

Deep Clean Your Home

If anyone in your family struggles with severe allergies, then you need to deep clean your home a few times a year. Regularly cleaning your home is going to remove any allergens and toxins that have become trapped in nooks and crannies. Instead of using harsh cleaning products that are packed with chemicals, you might want to create your own non-toxic cleaners from white vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.

Have Your HVAC System Serviced

At least once or twice a year, you need to have your HVAC services specialist look at your system. While you should be able to change the air filters on your own, cleaning the ducts requires specialized tools. An HVAC contractor can also make sure that your heating and cooling system is working as efficiently as possible, and that is going to save you quite a bit of money. Dust in vents is a common culprit in flaring up allergies and sneezing.

Wash Your Hands

Washing your hands is your first line of defense against seasonal allergies. Over the course of a single day, you are going to touch billions of germs, and some of those germs will be transferred to your face whenever you scratch your nose or bring food to your mouth. You should also consider taking a small bottle of hand sanitizer with you wherever you go.

Try a Saline Spray

The primary purpose of nasal irrigation is to gently flush mucus out of the nose and sinuses. This practice is also going to moisturize your nasal passages, and that will reduce irritation and inflammation. Some people make their own saline sprays at home, but you can buy inexpensive cans of saline spray at most supermarkets and pharmacies.

Groom Your Pets

Billions of allergens are going to get trapped inside your pet’s coat every time they go outside, and those contaminants could cause allergy flare-ups. During the allergy season, pet owners should have their cats and dogs groomed at least once every few weeks. As an added bonus, regularly grooming your pet will also improve their health and happiness.

If you have tried these few tips and are still struggling with severe allergies, then you need to schedule an appointment with your doctor. Your doctor will be able to help you come up with a comprehensive treatment plan that mitigates some of the worst allergy symptoms.